If you're a fan of Cracker Barrel's famous hashbrown casserole, then you're in for a treat! This recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make copycat of the classic comfort dish. Whether you're serving it as a breakfast side, a main course for brunch, or even as a dinner side dish, this creamy, cheesy, and buttery hashbrown casserole will steal the show. With its perfectly tender potatoes, gooey melted cheese, and a rich, creamy base, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.

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The best part of this recipe is how simple and flexible it is. Made with frozen hashbrowns, melted butter, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and a can of cream of chicken soup, it requires minimal prep time and delivers maximum flavor. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday meals, where you can serve it alongside roasted meats, fresh salads, or grilled vegetables. Plus, you can customize the recipe with additional ingredients, such as bacon or jalapeños, to suit your taste.

Why This Recipe Will Become a Favorite

What makes this hashbrown casserole stand out from the rest? It's the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy base, made with sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup, coats every bite of tender potatoes, while the cheddar cheese adds a rich, melty goodness that takes this dish over the top. The onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, while the salt and pepper bring everything together. And to finish it off, the golden, cheesy crust that forms on top is absolutely irresistible.

The combination of convenience and flavor makes this dish a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions. You can even prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, making it a hassle-free option for any meal. It’s comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a dish that you’ll return to again and again.

What Makes Hashbrown Casserole So Special?

Hashbrown casserole is the epitome of comfort food. It’s warm, cheesy, creamy, and has that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture that everyone loves. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible, but the flavors are anything but basic. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a rich and satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can add mix-ins like bacon, ham, or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and texture. Or, if you’re looking for a little heat, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or chopped jalapeños. The options are endless, and the results are always delicious.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

Calories: 320 kcal
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 640mg
While this hashbrown casserole is indulgent, it’s made with real, wholesome ingredients. The butter and cheese provide richness, while the sour cream and cream of chicken soup create a creamy base that keeps the casserole from being too heavy. The hashbrowns offer a tender bite, and the onions add a layer of sweetness that balances out the richness.

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Serving Suggestions

Hashbrown casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Serve it alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast, or pair it with roasted chicken or grilled steak for a comforting dinner. It also makes a great addition to a brunch spread, where it can be served alongside fresh fruit, salads, and pastries.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using this casserole as a base for other dishes. You can layer it with cooked ground beef or sausage for a loaded hashbrown casserole, or even top it with a fried egg for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless, and this dish is sure to be a hit no matter how you serve it.

Storage and Reheating Tips Storage:

Leftover hashbrown casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings on high for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to restore the creamy texture.

Freezing: This casserole can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it before baking. Assemble the casserole as directed, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to bake, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Fun Fact:

The Origins of Hashbrowns Hashbrowns are a classic American dish with roots in the 19th century. Originally a breakfast food, hashbrowns were made by grating potatoes and frying them in butter or oil until crispy. Today, hashbrowns are a beloved staple of diner menus across the country, often served with eggs, bacon, and toast. This casserole takes the traditional hashbrown and elevates it with creamy ingredients and cheese, turning it into a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any meal.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

If you’re looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dish that will please a crowd, this hashbrown casserole is the answer. It’s rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a dish that’s sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients that you likely already have on hand, so you can whip it up in no time.

This recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or add-ins. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this hashbrown casserole will become a go-to dish that your family and friends will love.

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Hashbrown Casserole - Cracker Barrel Copycat Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 bag (30 oz) frozen hashbrowns, thawed
• 8 tbsp (1 stick) butter, melted
• 1 can (10 ¾ oz.) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the thawed hashbrowns to the mixture and gently stir until the potatoes are fully coated.
4. Pour the hashbrown mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Extra Tips

• For a crunchier topping, sprinkle some crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking.
• If you prefer a meatier casserole, add cooked bacon or sausage to the hashbrown mixture.
• You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for the cream of chicken if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.

This hashbrown casserole is sure to become a family favorite with its creamy, cheesy texture and comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, it’s the perfect addition to any meal!